Celebrating Texas Chicken Fried Steak Day

There is nothing quite as satisfying as a warm plate of Chicken Fried Steak paired with buttery mashed potatoes, all generously smothered in peppery cream gravy, and accompanied by a side of crisp green beans. This beloved dish has transcended its humble origins and is now a staple in fine dining establishments across the country, often featuring innovative twists with exotic meats like antelope and elk.

Traditionally made from less expensive cuts of beef, Chicken Fried Steak involves a meticulous process of tenderizing the meat, dipping it in a floury egg bath, and frying it to golden perfection—either in a cast-iron skillet or deep-fried. The result? A flavorful, crispy crust with delightful peaks and valleys that capture every drop of that luscious gravy, delivering a comforting experience that warms the soul.

The history of Chicken Fried Steak is as rich as its flavor, with roots that trace back to various cultural influences. Many believe it shares a strong resemblance to German schnitzel and Scottish collops. The German settlers of Texas, particularly those in the Hill Country, played a pivotal role in popularizing this dish as a way to utilize tougher cuts of beef, transforming them into a culinary treasure.

While some may argue about its origins—Oklahoma proudly claims Chicken Fried Steak as its state dish—Texas has embraced it wholeheartedly, especially since World War II.

In a delightful turn of events, we owe a nod of gratitude to Jeffrey Yarbrough, a friend of CraveDFW, for establishing October 26th as the official Texas Chicken Fried Steak Day. Yarbrough, in collaboration with restaurateurs Tom Perini and Ralph Sheffield, has elevated this savory Southern classic, stating, “I am honored to have worked closely with restaurateurs to celebrate a dish that reflects our state’s history. Creating the official Texas Chicken Fried Steak Day has been a dream come true and makes me so proud to be a Texan.”

Mark your calendars for October 26th—an exciting day of revelry dedicated to this iconic dish! This month, we’ll share stories highlighting some of our favorite Chicken Fried Steaks from across the Lone Star State, culminating in a comprehensive list of restaurants renowned for crafting exceptional versions of this comfort food classic. Join us as we celebrate the flavorful legacy of Chicken Fried Steak.

2 Comments

Filed under Crave

2 responses to “Celebrating Texas Chicken Fried Steak Day

  1. Sherry

    Where can I find the best Chicken Fried steak in Garland Tx??

  2. Babes is pretty good

Leave a Reply